Biodegradable Antibacterial Nanostructured Coatings on Polypropylene Substrates for Reduction in Hospital Infections from High-Touch Surfaces
Mariamelia Stanzione, Ilaria Improta, Maria Grazia Raucci, Alessandra Soriente, Marino Lavorgna, Giovanna Giuliana Buonocore, Roberto Spogli, Anna Maria Marcelloni, Anna Rita Proietto, Ilaria Amori, Antonella Mansi

TL;DR
This paper introduces biodegradable antibacterial coatings for hospital surfaces to reduce infections by using nanostructured materials with proven antimicrobial effectiveness.
Contribution
A novel nanostructured coating system combining chitosan, poly(ε-caprolactone), and chlorhexidine-loaded zirconium phosphate nanoparticles is developed and tested for hospital surface decontamination.
Findings
Chitosan- and PCL-based coatings showed strong antibacterial activity against clinical pathogens.
PCL-based coatings exhibited faster and broader bactericidal effects while maintaining cytocompatibility.
The coatings are suitable for sustainable and scalable decontamination of high-touch hospital surfaces.
Abstract
Healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) remain a significant global challenge, as pathogenic microorganisms can persist on hospital surfaces and medical equipment, contributing to severe infections and epidemic outbreaks. Conventional preventive measures, including disinfection procedures and personal protective equipment, are often insufficient to ensure complete microbial control, prompting interest in innovative antimicrobial surface technologies. This study reports the design, preparation, and comprehensive characterization of chitosan- and poly(ε-caprolactone)-based antibacterial coatings incorporating chlorhexidine-loaded zirconium phosphate (ZrPCHX) nanoparticles. Coatings were deposited by optimized spray and brush techniques to obtain uniform, adherent, and well-defined films. Their morphological, physicochemical, mechanical, and cytocompatibility properties were…
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Taxonomy
TopicsAntimicrobial agents and applications · Infection Control in Healthcare · Orthopedic Infections and Treatments
